Emergency crews are responding to a deadly mass casualty incident after a gas explosion triggered a major fire and partial building collapse at Silver Lake Nursing Home, also known as Bristol Health and Rehab Center, in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania, officials said Tuesday.
Authorities confirmed at least two people were killed and five others were hospitalized following the explosion. Five people remain unaccounted for as search-and-rescue operations continue at the facility, which is located about 20 miles northeast of Philadelphia.
NURSING HOME EXPLOSION:
– Mass casualty incident declared at facility in Bucks County, PA
– Multiple people trapped
– No word on number of injuries
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Explosion Follows Reported Gas Odor
The blast occurred shortly after 2 p.m. after crews from PECO responded to reports of a gas odor at the nursing home. While crews were on site, an explosion occurred, igniting a large fire and causing sections of the building to collapse.
Officials said natural gas and electric service were shut off immediately for safety reasons as firefighters battled the blaze.
Patients Transported to Area Hospital
St. Mary Medical Center in Bucks County received five patients from the scene, according to hospital officials. Two of those patients have since been discharged.
The condition of the remaining hospitalized patients was not immediately disclosed.
State of Emergency Declared in Bristol Township
Bristol Township officials issued a local state of emergency for seven days as multiple agencies continue rescue and recovery efforts amid extensive structural damage.
Emergency responders remain on scene as crews search for those still unaccounted for and assess the stability of the damaged building.
State Resources Assist Ongoing Investigation
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said state emergency resources and state police are assisting local authorities at the scene.
Officials said the cause of the explosion has not yet been determined and remains under investigation as the situation continues to develop.
